Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has arrived in Tehran for pivotal discussions concerning Iran's nuclear program. This visit is crucial as it comes at a time of heightened tensions following the recent US election results, which saw Donald Trump secure victory. During Trump's first term, the US withdrew from the 2015 nuclear agreement, prompting Iran to gradually abandon its commitments under the deal. The agreement originally aimed to restrict Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.
Grossi's agenda in Tehran includes meetings with key figures such as the head of the Iranian Atomic Energy Organization, Mohammad Eslami, and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghtschi. These discussions are urgent as the potential return of Trump to power in January could escalate tensions between the US and Iran further. Grossi has expressed the necessity of finding diplomatic solutions, emphasizing that the window for negotiation may be closing.
The Iranian President, Massud Peseschkian, advocates for reviving the nuclear deal and ending Iran's isolation. Meanwhile, the IAEA has raised concerns about Iran's uranium enrichment level, which has reached 60%, far exceeding the 3.7% allowed under the 2015 agreement. The situation is exacerbated by Israel's warnings of potential attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, citing the threat posed by Iran's support for groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
Grossi's visit also aims to improve cooperation on inspecting Iran's nuclear sites. Despite Iran's willingness to negotiate, it insists on doing so without external pressure. The international community remains wary of Iran's nuclear ambitions, fearing the enrichment could eventually lead to weapons-grade material. As diplomatic avenues narrow, Grossi's visit could be pivotal in steering the situation away from potential conflict.
